Pennsylvania Senator Proposes Ban on Credit Card Use for Gambling: A Move to Address Problem Gambling

Pennsylvania Senator Wayne D. Fontana, representing the Democratic Party, is spearheading a legislative initiative aimed at banning the use of credit cards for gambling activities in the state. The proposed bill, set to be introduced in the Pennsylvania state Congress, targets various forms of gambling, including sports betting, daily fantasy contests, iLottery, and online casino gaming.

Fontana's legislative endeavor stems from a growing concern regarding problem gambling in Pennsylvania, exacerbated by the proliferation of online betting and gaming platforms since the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) in 2018. Expressing his rationale behind the proposed legislation, Fontana emphasized the potential risks associated with increased access to gambling options, particularly among young adults, and the consequent rise in credit card debt.

"Online gaming and sports betting is growing exponentially, especially with young adults. At the same time, credit card debt is climbing. So we need to make sure the greater access to gambling isn’t leading to burdensome or crippling credit card balances," Fontana elaborated.

Fontana's initiative coincides with National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, underscoring the significance of addressing gambling-related harm and providing support resources. If ratified by the state Congress, Fontana's bill would align Pennsylvania with several other states, such as Iowa, Tennessee, and Massachusetts, that have implemented prohibitions on credit card use for gambling purposes.

The precedent set by Iowa in 2022, which cited concerns about the potential accumulation of unsustainable debts, serves as a guiding example. Pennsylvania's robust presence in the U.S. online gaming market, evidenced by over $858.1 million in sports betting wagers accepted in January alone, underscores the potential impact of banning credit card use on wagering activity and revenues.

Jurisdictions with existing credit card bans have witnessed enforcement actions against betting companies found in violation. Similar measures have been adopted in the UK since 2019, with Sweden and Australia also exploring comparable legislation as part of broader gambling law reforms.

Fontana's proposed legislation reflects a concerted effort to tackle problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices, particularly amid the evolving landscape of online gambling. By addressing the accessibility of gambling options and potential financial risks associated with credit card use, Fontana aims to safeguard the well-being of Pennsylvania residents and mitigate the adverse impacts of excessive gambling behaviors.

By fLEXI tEAM